rules against

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rules against" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to regulations or decisions that prohibit certain actions or behaviors. Example: The committee rules against the proposed changes to the policy. Alternative expressions include "prohibits" and "forbids."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

rules against export subsidies.

The New York Times

A1 Court Rules Against F.B.I.

The New York Times

"That's why there's rules against it".

The New York Times - Sports

There are no rules against this.

The Guardian - Opinion

The N.F.L. has rules against such showboating.

The New York Times - Sports

Rules Against U.S. on Cotton Subsidies".

The New York Times

We've no rules against a racy show.

The New York Times

Firstly, the rules against making threats have been tightened up.

The Guardian - Tech

But the rules against mixing are being challenged.

The Economist

The N.B.A. has no rules against such an arrangement.

The New York Times - Sports

"That certainly applies to the rules against betting".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "rules against", ensure the context clearly defines what specific actions or behaviors are being prohibited. Clarity prevents misinterpretation and strengthens the directive nature of the rule.

Common error

Avoid using "rules against" without specifying what the rules pertain to. For example, instead of saying "there are rules against that", specify "there are "rules against texting in meetings"" to provide context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rules against" functions as a prepositional phrase indicating prohibition or restriction. It's commonly used to specify regulations, laws, or guidelines that prevent certain actions or behaviors. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through various examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

10%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "rules against" is a common and grammatically sound way to express prohibitions or restrictions. As shown by Ludwig, it appears frequently in news, media, scientific and wiki contexts, exhibiting a neutral to formal tone. Alternatives such as "prohibitions on" or "restrictions on" offer similar meanings, though with slight differences in formality. When using "rules against", ensure clarity by specifying the exact actions or behaviors that are prohibited. Ludwig AI confirms that the examples and guidance provided offer a clear understanding of how to effectively use this phrase in various situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prohibitions on

Focuses specifically on the act of prohibiting, often in an official context.

restrictions on

Emphasizes limitations or constraints placed on something.

bans on

Highlights a formal or legal prohibition.

limitations on

Underscores the act of setting boundaries or constraints.

safeguards against

Suggests measures taken to protect against something undesirable.

measures against

Refers to specific actions implemented to counter or prevent something.

deterrents against

Focuses on discouraging certain actions through preventive means.

defense against

Highlights protective measures aimed at thwarting an action or event.

curbs on

Implies a reduction or restraint placed upon something.

checks on

Suggests mechanisms in place to control or regulate something.

FAQs

How do I use "rules against" in a sentence?

You can use "rules against" to indicate prohibitions or restrictions. For example: "The N.F.L. has "rules against such showboating"" or "There are strict "rules against campaigning in polling places"".

What are some alternatives to "rules against"?

Alternatives include "prohibitions on", "restrictions on", or "bans on". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it more formal to say "prohibitions on" rather than "rules against"?

Generally, "prohibitions on" carries a slightly more formal tone than "rules against". "Prohibitions on" often suggests an official or legal context, while "rules against" can apply more broadly to various types of regulations.

What's the difference between "rules against" and "guidelines against"?

"Rules against" indicate mandatory restrictions that must be followed, while "guidelines against" offer recommendations that are not necessarily compulsory. Rules carry more weight and stricter consequences than guidelines.